By January 2008 Amy had been in hospital nearly 2 months and we decided she needed a treat. We thought a visit from her hero Newcastle United player Alan Smith would definately cheer her up!
Our wonderful play specialist Jessie contacted a lady known as 'Mrs Fixit' alias Caroline Thomas from Sharon's Trust Charity.
Amy was completely unaware of any thing going on so when we received a message from Caroline to say that Alan would be with us in two days time Amy was absolutely amazed!!!At 5pm on Friday Jan 27th Amy's dream came true! She was meeting her idol and hero. The two of them seemed so natural together,they chatted like two old mates about football, hobbies and mutual interests for almost an hour. Then Caroline reminded him that he had to be back in time for dinner. We escorted him back to the lift, Amy and Alan walking along together. He stood in the back of the lift, smiling at Amy until the doors closed and then he was gone.
What a fantastic time Amy had had, she didn't come down to earth for days and couldn't wait to see the photos. We just kept talking about the visit and re-living the whole experience, it was so very special.
On March 28th Amy had her transplant and we knew that Newcastle United were coming down south again 4 weeks later. Amy had another huge suprise - Alan was coming for a second visit. This time Amy had a virus so Alan had to come in gowned up - in white plastic apron and rubber gloves. We all fell about laughing - Alan included!! As soon as the door was closed the apron and gloves were off - naughty Alan!!! Again he stayed nearly an hour and gave Amy the most amazing gift. We walked him back to the lift and our lasting memory of Alan is that wonderful smile that seemed just for Amy.
Alan's visits gave Amy such a lift and they were like rays of sunshine at an absolutely awful time .
I can't thank Caroline enough for organising the visits or Alan for giving up his time.
Well done Alan !!
